Automatic fluid flow system with latch connection

ABSTRACT

Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to apparatus and methods for automatic fluid flow system connectors. The system generally includes a load cell interface coupled to a console and a ring connector coupled to a fluid collection system. The ring connector can be releasably engaged with the load cell using an engagement structure such as a latch, locking arm, or spring clip mechanism. The ring connector and load cell can include electrical contacts configured to engage along an axis that extends perpendicular to a surface that the electrical contacts are disposed on. Advantageously, reduced wear on the electrical contacts should extend the usable life of the system.

PRIORITY

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/054,682, filed Jul. 21, 2020, which is incorporatedby reference in its entirety into this application.

SUMMARY

Briefly summarized, embodiments disclosed herein are directed toautomatic fluid flow system connectors and the like. In order tomaintain a high accuracy of fluid flow monitoring, automatic fluid flowsystems can determine a change in fluid volume by detecting a change inweight of a fluid collection system, over time. These detection systemsrely on precise weight measurements to provide high accuracy of fluidflow in low-flow situations. As such, interface mechanisms configured toengage the fluid collection system with the automatic fluid flow systemrequire a secure fit to ensure the downward forces, or changes thereof,are accurately transferred to the automatic fluid flow system. Further,the interface mechanisms must sustain repeated engagements anddisengagements as different fluid collection systems are coupled oruncoupled to the automatic fluid flow system.

Disclosed herein is an automatic fluid flow measuring system including,a ring connector configured to be coupled to a fluid collection systemand including a first electrical contact disposed on a first surface, aload cell including a second electrical contact disposed on a secondsurface, the load cell configured to engage and retain the ringconnector such that the first electrical contact engages the secondelectrical contact along an axis extending perpendicular to both thefirst surface and the second surface, and an engagement structureengaging a side surface of one of the ring connector or the load celland configured to releasably secure the ring connector to the load cell.

In some embodiments, wherein the engagement structure includes a latchhingedly coupled to one of the ring connector or the load cell androtatable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the latchengaging a flange in the locked position to releasably secure the ringconnector to the load cell. In some embodiments, the latch engages theflange in one of an interference fit, press-fit, or snap-fit engagement.In some embodiments, the flange extends along a portion of a sidesurface of the load cell and extends parallel to the second surface ofthe load cell.

In some embodiments, the ring connector includes a protrusion, extendingfrom a rear surface thereof, and wherein the load cell includes a recessdisposed on a front surface thereof and configured to receive theprotrusion. In some embodiments, the load cell includes a pair of guideplates extending from a side surface of the load cell and configured toreceive the latch therebetween. In some embodiments, the automatic fluidflow measuring system further includes an O-ring configured to engageboth the ring connector and the load cell in the locked configuration toprovide a fluid-tight seal therebetween. In some embodiments, the O-ringextends annularly around one of a ring connector electrical contact or aload cell electrical contact.

In some embodiments, the engagement structure includes a first lockingarm and a second locking arm slidably engaged with the load cell andtransitionable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Insome embodiments, the first locking arm and a second locking arm areslidable along an axis extending parallel to the second surface. In someembodiments, the automatic fluid flow measuring system further includesa biasing member configured to bias the first locking arm and the secondlocking arm to the locked position. In some embodiments, the automaticfluid flow measuring system further includes an actuator configured torelease the first locking arm and the second locking arm and allow thebiasing member to transition the first locking arm and the secondlocking arm from the unlocked position to the locked position.

In some embodiments, the actuator is disposed on the second surface andconfigured to be actuated by the first surface engaging the secondsurface. In some embodiments, the actuator includes one of a pushbutton, pressure transducer, optical transducer, magnetic switch,electro-magnetic actuator, solenoid, or a radio-frequency tag. In someembodiments, the automatic fluid flow measuring system further includesa first release arm and a second release arm slidably engaged with theload cell and configured to transition the a first locking arm and asecond locking arm from a locked position to an unlocked position. Insome embodiments, the automatic fluid flow measuring system furtherincludes a seat extending from a lower surface of the load cell andconfigured to support a bottom surface of the ring connector to transfera downward force from the ring connector to the load cell.

Also disclosed is an automatic fluid flow measuring system including, aring connector having a peg extending from a front surface andconfigured to be coupled to a fluid collection system, the ringconnector including a first electrical contact disposed on a firstsurface, a load cell including a cradle configured to engage a portionof the ring connector and including a second electrical contact disposedon a second surface, the first electrical contact engaging the secondelectrical contact along an axis extending perpendicular to both thefirst surface and the second surface.

In some embodiments, the ring connector includes a spring clip slidablebetween a locked position and an unlocked position, the spring clipengaging the cradle to releasably secure the ring connector to the loadcell. In some embodiments, the ring connector includes a biasing memberconfigured to bias the spring clip towards the locked position. In someembodiments, the ring connector includes an actuator configured totransition the spring clip from a locked position to an unlockedposition. In some embodiments, the cradle includes a seat extending fromthe second surface of the load cell and configured to support a bottomsurface of the ring connector to transfer a downward force from the ringconnector to the load cell. In some embodiments, the cradle includes oneor more guide rails configured to align a surface of the ring connectorwith the cradle. In some embodiments, the ring connector includes aprotrusion configured to engage a recess disposed in a surface of thecradle.

Also disclosed is a method of measuring a fluid flow including,providing a ring connector configured to be coupled to a fluidcollection system and including a first electrical contact disposed on afirst surface and a load cell including a second electrical contactdisposed on a second surface, urging the ring connector along a firstaxis until the first surface of the ring connector engages the secondsurface of the load cell, releasably securing the ring connector to theload cell, transferring a force from the fluid collection system to thering connector to the load cell, and determining a fluid flow bydetermining a change in force over time.

In some embodiments, the force is transferred from the ring connector tothe load cell along a second axis extending perpendicular to the firstaxis. In some embodiments, releasably securing the ring connector to theload cell includes rotating a latch that is hingedly coupled to the ringconnector, the latch engaging a flange extending from the load cell in asnap-fit engagement. In some embodiments, the ring connector includes aprotrusion extending from a surface and configured to engage a recessdisposed on the load cell to secure the ring connector thereto. In someembodiments, the method further includes an O-ring disposed between thering connector and the load cell and encircling one of the firstelectrical contact or the second electrical contact. In someembodiments, releasably securing the ring connector to the load cellincludes actuating an actuator to release a first locking arm and asecond locking arm, and allowing a biasing member to transition thefirst locking arm and the second locking arm from the unlocked positionto the locked position.

In some embodiments, the first locking arm and the second locking armare slidably engaged with the load cell along a second axis extendingperpendicular to the first axis. In some embodiments, the method furtherincludes actuating a release arm to transition the first locking arm andthe second locking arm from the locked position to the unlockedposition. In some embodiments, releasably securing the ring connector tothe load cell includes a spring clip transition between a lockedposition and an unlocked position to engage a surface of a cradledispose on the load cell. In some embodiments, the cradle includes aseat configured to support a bottom surface of the ring connector andtransfer a force from the ring connector to the load cell.

DRAWINGS

A more particular description of the present disclosure will be renderedby reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in theappended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict onlytypical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to beconsidered limiting of its scope. Example embodiments of the inventionwill be described and explained with additional specificity and detailthrough the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of an exemplary automatic fluid flowsystem including a fluid collection system, in accordance withembodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 1B-1C show perspective views of a load cell interface and a ringconnector of an exemplary automatic fluid flow system, in accordancewith embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2A shows a front view of a load cell interface, in accordance withembodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2B shows a perspective side view of a ring connector, in accordancewith embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2C shows a side view of a ring connector and a load cell interfacein a locked position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2D shows a side view of a ring connector and a load cell interfacein an unlocked position, in accordance with embodiments disclosedherein.

FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of a ring connector and a load cellinterface in an unlocked position, in accordance with embodimentsdisclosed herein.

FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of a ring connector and a load cellinterface in a locked position, in accordance with embodiments disclosedherein.

FIG. 3C shows a rear view of a load cell interface and a ring connectorin an unlocked position, in accordance with embodiments disclosedherein.

FIG. 3D shows a rear view of a load cell interface and a ring connectorin a locked position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a ring connector and a load cellinterface in an unlocked position, in accordance with embodimentsdisclosed herein.

FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of a ring connector, in accordance withembodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 4C shows a comparison of fluid collection system positions whensuspended by different ring connector embodiments, in accordance withembodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 4D shows close up detail of the ring connector of FIG. 4B, inaccordance with embodiments disclosed herein.

DESCRIPTION

Before some particular embodiments are disclosed in greater detail, itshould be understood that the particular embodiments disclosed herein donot limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. It should also beunderstood that a particular embodiment disclosed herein can havefeatures that can be readily separated from the particular embodimentand optionally combined with or substituted for features of any of anumber of other embodiments disclosed herein.

Terminology

Regarding terms used herein, it should also be understood the terms arefor the purpose of describing some particular embodiments, and the termsdo not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Ordinal numbers(e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are generally used to distinguish oridentify different features or steps in a group of features or steps,and do not supply a serial or numerical limitation. For example,“first,” “second,” and “third” features or steps need not necessarilyappear in that order, and the particular embodiments including suchfeatures or steps need not necessarily be limited to the three featuresor steps. Singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferences unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the following description, certain terminology is used to describeaspects of the invention. For example, in certain situations, the term“logic” is representative of hardware, firmware or software that isconfigured to perform one or more functions. As hardware, logic mayinclude circuitry having data processing or storage functionality.Examples of such circuitry may include, but are not limited orrestricted to a hardware processor (e.g., microprocessor with one ormore processor cores, a digital signal processor, a programmable gatearray, a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit“ASIC,” etc.), a semiconductor memory, or combinatorial elements.

Alternatively, logic may be software, such as executable code in theform of an executable application, an Application Programming Interface(API), a subroutine, a function, a procedure, an applet, a servlet, aroutine, source code, object code, a shared library/dynamic loadlibrary, or one or more instructions. The software may be stored in anytype of a suitable non-transitory storage medium, or transitory storagemedium (e.g., electrical, optical, acoustical or other form ofpropagated signals such as carrier waves, infrared signals, or digitalsignals). Examples of non-transitory storage medium may include, but arenot limited or restricted to a programmable circuit; semiconductormemory; non-persistent storage such as volatile memory (e.g., any typeof random access memory “RAM”); or persistent storage such asnon-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory “ROM,” power-backed RAM,flash memory, phase-change memory, etc.), a solid-state drive, hard diskdrive, an optical disc drive, or a portable memory device. As firmware,the executable code may be stored in persistent storage.

The term “computing device” should be construed as electronics with thedata processing capability and/or a capability of connecting to any typeof network, such as a public network (e.g., Internet), a private network(e.g., a wireless data telecommunication network, a local area network“LAN”, etc.), or a combination of networks. Examples of a computingdevice may include, but are not limited or restricted to, the following:a server, an endpoint device (e.g., a laptop, a smartphone, a tablet, a“wearable” device such as a smart watch, augmented or virtual realityviewer, or the like, a desktop computer, a netbook, a medical device, orany general-purpose or special-purpose, user-controlled electronicdevice), a mainframe, internet server, a router; or the like.

A “message” generally refers to information transmitted in one or moreelectrical signals that collectively represent electrically stored datain a prescribed format. Each message may be in the form of one or morepackets, frames, HTTP-based transmissions, or any other series of bitshaving the prescribed format.

The term “computerized” generally represents that any correspondingoperations are conducted by hardware in combination with software and/orfirmware.

Labels such as “left,” “right,” “upper”, “lower,” “top,” “bottom,”“front,” “back,” and the like are used for convenience and are notintended to imply, for example, any particular fixed location,orientation, or direction. Instead, such labels are used to reflect, forexample, relative location, orientation, or directions. To assist in thedescription of embodiments described herein, the “top,” “bottom,”“left,” “right,” “front” and “back” directions are in reference to theorientation of the device as shown in FIG. 1A. A vertical axis extendsbetween a top direction and a bottom direction. A lateral axis extendshorizontally between a left direction and a right direction,substantially normal to the vertical axis. A transverse axis extendshorizontally between a front direction and a back direction,substantially normal to both the vertical and lateral axes. A horizontalplane is defined by the lateral and transverse axes. A median plane isdefined by the vertical and transverse axes. A frontal plane is definedby the vertical and lateral axes.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skillin the art.

FIGS. 1A-1C show details of an exemplary automatic fluid flow measuringsystem (“system”) 100 including a fluid collection system 150 coupledthereto, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. The automaticfluid flow system 100 generally includes a console 110 including a loadcell interface (“load cell”) 112 configured to engage a ring connector(“ring”) 120. The ring connector 120 can include a loop 122, peg, hook,or similar structure from which a fluid collection system 150 can besuspended. The fluid collection system 150 can generally include one ormore collection containers 154 in fluid communication with a catheter152 or similar device configured to drain a fluid from a cavity of apatient. Optionally, the console 110 can be supported by a stand 108, orsimilar structure configured to support the console 110, ring 120, fluidcollection system 150, and the like.

In an embodiment, the catheter 152 can be an internal catheter or anexternal catheter. Exemplary catheters can include external urinarycatheter, internal urinary catheter, Foley catheter, balloon catheter,peritoneal catheters, or the like. Exemplary fluids collected caninclude urine, blood, peritoneal fluid, interstitial fluid, or the like.In an embodiment, the catheter 152 can be a Foley catheter configured todrain a fluid, e.g. urine, from a bladder of a patient.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the load cell interface 112 can be configured todetect a change in vertical movement relative to the console 110. In anembodiment, the load cell interface 112 can be configured to detect aforce applied thereto, along an axis extending parallel to a frontsurface of the load cell 112, or perpendicular to a central transverseaxis (x) of the load cell. For example, as shown in FIG. 1C, a ringconnector 120 can be coupled to the load cell interface 112 by engagingthe load cell 112 along the central transverse axis (x). The ringconnector 120 can then be locked to the load cell 112 by rotating thering connector 120 about the central transverse axis (x). In anembodiment, the ring connector 120 can be rotated between 5° and 360°.In an embodiment, the ring connector 120 can be rotated substantially180°. A fluid collection system 150 can then be coupled to the loop 122of the ring connector 120. A change in fluid volume within the fluidcollection system 150, and thereby a change in weight thereof, causes achange in force applied to the load cell interface 112. The change inforce can be substantially along a vertical axis, however it will beappreciated that the load cell interface 112 can detect force changesalong other axes in three-dimensional space, as well.

The change in force applied to the load cell interface 112 can bedetected by the console 110 to determine a change in fluid volume withinthe fluid collection system 150. This information can then be stored,analyzed, displayed, or communicated to one or more external computingdevices or networks, e.g. an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system,network, or the like.

In an embodiment, the load cell interface 112 can include an engagementstructure such as a locking mechanism 114, and an electrical contactinterface 116. The locking mechanism 114 can be configured to engage acorresponding locking mechanism disposed on the ring connector 120 tosecure the ring connector 120 to the load cell interface 112, asdescribed in more detail herein. As noted, the locking mechanism 114 canbe a rotational locking mechanism 114 where the ring connector 120 isrotated through a frontal plane by substantially 180° to transition thering connector between a locked configuration (FIG. 1A) and an unlockedconfiguration (FIG. 1C).

In an embodiment, the electrical contact interface 116 can be configuredto engage a corresponding electrical contact interface 126 disposed onthe ring connector 120 to communicatively couple the ring connector 120to the load cell interface 112 of the console 110. In an embodiment, thering connector electrical contact interface 126 engages the load cellelectrical contact interface 116 in one of the locked configuration orthe unlocked configuration.

In an embodiment, the ring connector 120 can include one or moreprocessors, memory, storage logic, communication logic, or the like,configured to store information and communicate with the console 110 byway of the ring connector electrical contact interface 126 and the loadcell electrical contact interface 116. For example, the ring connector120 can store fluid flow information, system information, patientinformation, or the like. Fluid flow information can include current orhistorical fluid volume information, fluid flow information (i.e. changein volume over time), combinations thereof or the like. Systeminformation can include the make, model, serial number, etc. of the ringconnector 120, fluid collection system 150, the console 110, componentsthereof, or the like. Patient information can include height, weight,blood pressure, etc. of the patient, or similar health recordinformation.

Advantageously, the fluid flow information, system information, patientinformation, and the like, can be stored to the ring connector 120 andtransported with the collection system 150 and the patient. The ringconnector 120 and collection system 150 assembly can then be coupled toa different console 110, e.g. during transport or console malfunction,and continue to measure fluid flow without losing the historical data,or transferring the data separately. As such, the data remains with thepatient and the collection system and is not lost.

FIGS. 2A-2D show embodiments of a load cell interface 212 and a ringconnector 220 including an engagement structure having a latch lockingmechanism 214 configured to releasably engage the ring connector 220with the load cell 212. The ring connector 220 can define a frontsurface, a rear surface and a side surface extending therebetween. Theload cell 212 can define a front surface, a rear surface and a sidesurface extending therebetween. To note, while one of the load cell 212or the ring connector 220 can define a circular shaped front surface orrear surface, it will be appreciated that other closed curve, regular orirregular polygonal shapes are also contemplated including triangular,square, hexagonal, or the like.

In an embodiment, the load cell 212 can include a flange 218 extendingradially therefrom, i.e. extending substantially parallel to a frontsurface of the load cell 212. In an embodiment, the flange 218 canextend along a portion of a side surface of the load cell 212. In anembodiment, the flange 218 can extend annularly about the load cell 212.In an embodiment, the latch locking mechanism 214 includes one or morelatches 232 hingedly coupled with the ring connector 220 and configuredto releasably engage a portion of flange 218. In an embodiment, thelatch 232 rotates and engages the flange 218 in an interference fit,press-fit, snap-fit engagement, or the like.

In an embodiment, one or more of the latches 232 can be hingedly coupledto one of the front surface, side surface, or rear surface of the one ofthe ring connector 220, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment thelatches 232 can be coupled to the same surface or different surfaces.For example, as shown, the ring connector 220 can include a top latch232A, a left latch 232B, and a right latch 232C, each coupled to a sidesurface of the ring connector 220. However, it will be appreciated thatany number, orientation (e.g. hingedly coupled to either the load cell212 or the ring connector 220), or configuration of latches 232 areconsidered to fall within the scope of the present invention. As shownin FIGS. 2C-2D, the one or more latches 232 can be rotated to engage theflange 218 and secure the ring connector 220 to the load cell 212.Advantageously, the one or more latches 232 can be hingedely coupled toand releasably engage, a side surface of one of the ring connector 220or the load cell 212 to provide minimal obstruction between the rearsurface of the ring connector 220 and a front surface of the load cell212. This can provide a quick and intuitive engagement between the ringconnector 220 and the load cell 212, expediting the coupling process andmitigating failure of the locking engagement.

In an embodiment, a front surface of the load cell 212 can include arecess 240 configured to receive a protrusion 242 extending from a rearsurface of the ring connector 220. The protrusion 242 can engage therecess 240 to facilitate alignment of the ring connector 220 with theload cell 212. Further, the protrusion 242 can engage the recess 240 totransfer a force from the ring connector 220, and the fluid collectionsystem 150 coupled thereto, to the load cell 212. For example, as afluid volume within the fluid collection system 150 increases, theweight of the fluid collection system 150 also increases and applies adownward force on the loop 122 and ring connector 220. The protrusion242 engages the recess 240 and transfers the downward force to the loadcell 212 which in turn is detected by the console 110. The console 110can then determine an amount of fluid disposed within the fluidcollection system 150 by a corresponding change in movement or pressureapplied to the load cell 212. Similarly, the console 110 can determine afluid flow by determining a change in fluid volume over time. As will beappreciated, the ring connector 220 can include any number, shape, orconfiguration of protrusions 242. Similarly, the load cell 212 caninclude any number, shape, or configuration of recesses 240. Further,one of the load cell 212 or the ring connector 220 can include a recess240, protrusion 242, or combinations thereof.

In an exemplary method of use, a load cell 212 and a ring connector 220including a latch locking mechanism 214 is provided, as describedherein. A rear surface of the ring connector 220 can be aligned with afront surface of the load cell 212. In an embodiment, a protrusion 242extending from one of the ring connector 220 or the load cell 212 canalign and engage with a recess 240 disposed on one of the load cell 212or the ring connector 220. The protrusion 242 can facilitate alignmentand securement of the ring connector 220 with the load cell 212. Therear surface of the ring connector 220 can engage the front surface ofthe load cell 212. A latch 232 can be rotated from an unlockedconfiguration to engage a flange 218 in a locked configuration.

In an embodiment, the load cell 212 can include an electrical contact116 disposed on a front surface thereof. The ring connector 220 caninclude an electrical contact 226 disposed on a rear surface andconfigured to align with the load cell electrical contact 116. In thelocked configuration, the ring connector electrical contact 226 contactsthe load cell electrical contact 116 to communicatively couple with ringconnector 220 with the console 110, as described herein. Advantageously,the ring connector electrical contact 226 engages the load cellelectrical contact 116 along a transverse axis that extendsperpendicular to the surfaces that the electrical contacts 116, 226 aredisposed on. This mitigates wear on the electrical contact surfaces andprovides a reliable communicative coupling therebetween, extending theusable life of the system 100.

In an embodiment, the flange 218 can include one or more guide plates234 extending normal to the flange 218. The guide plates 234 can bedisposed adjacent the latch 232, and can receive the latch 232therebetween when the latch 232 is in the locked configuration. In anembodiment, the guide plates 234 can contact the latch 232 when thelatch 232 is in the locked configuration. The guide plates 234 can beconfigured to guide the latch 232 to the locked position on the loadcell 212. The guide plates 234 can support the latch 232 to inhibitmovement of the latch 232, for example, movement perpendicular to theaxis of rotation of the latch 232. Advantageously, the guide plates 234provide an intuitive receiving position for the latch 232 to align thelatch 232, and thereby the ring connector 220, with the load cell 212.

In an embodiment, one of the ring connector 220 or the load cell 212 caninclude an O-ring 236 or similar grommet extending annularly along anedge of the ring connector and configured to encircle the electricalcontacts 116, 226 when in the locked position. As shown, the O-ring 236extends along a side surface of the protrusion 242 and can engage a sidesurface of the recess 240 on the load cell 312 when in the lockedconfiguration. However, it will be appreciated that the O-ring 236 canextend along a portion of the rear surface of the ring connector 220, arear surface of the protrusion 242, a front surface of the load cell312, an inner surface of the recess 240, combinations thereof or thelike. Advantageously, the O-ring 236 can engage the ring connector 220and the load cell 212 in the locked position and provide a fluid-tightseal therebetween. This prevents any fluid from accessing the electricalcontacts 116, 226, and causing a short-circuit, or similar damage to thesystem 100. Further, the O-ring 236 can provide an interference fitbetween the ring connector 220 and the load cell 212 further securingthe ring connector 220 thereto.

Advantageously, the ring connector 220 can engage the load cell 212along a transverse axis, which is parallel to an axis of connectionbetween the load cell 212 and the console 110. Worded differently, thering connector 220 engages the load cell 212 along an axis with whichthe load cell 212 is most supported and thereby mitigates damage to theload cell 212 relative to other directions of engagement, e.g.rotational about the transverse axis, termed “off-axis.” Further, thelatches 232 provide an intuitive locking mechanism 214.

FIGS. 3A-3D show an embodiment of a load cell 312 and a ring connector320 including an engagement structure having a spring latch lockingmechanism 314 configured to releasably secure the ring connector 320with the load cell 312. The ring connector 320 can define a frontsurface, a rear surface and a side surface extending therebetween. Theload cell 312 can define a front surface, a rear surface and a sidesurface extending therebetween. To note, while one of the load cell 312or the ring connector 320 can define a substantially circular shapedfront surface or rear surface, it will be appreciated that other closedcurve, regular or irregular polygonal shapes are also contemplatedincluding triangular, square, hexagonal, or the like.

In an embodiment, the spring latch locking mechanism 314 includes one ormore locking arms 332, e.g. a left locking arm 332A and a right lockingarm 332B disposed opposite the left locking arm 332A across a centraltransverse axis (x). It will be appreciated that other combinations andorientations of locking arms 332 are also contemplated to fall withinthe scope of the present invention. The locking arms 332A, 332B can beslidably engaged with the load cell 312 along an axis extendingperpendicular to a transverse axis, for example a lateral axis (y).

The load cell 312 can further include a seat 318 extending from a loweredge of the load cell 312 and configured to engage a lower surface ofthe ring connector 320 in the locked configuration (FIG. 3B).Advantageously, the seat 318 can be configured to support the weight ofthe ring connector 320, and optionally the fluid collection system 150coupled thereto, and transfer a downward force from the ring connector320 to the load cell 312.

The load cell 312 can include an actuator 336 disposed on a frontsurface of the load cell 312. As shown the actuator 312 can be disposedsubstantially at a center point on the front surface of the load cell312. However, it will be appreciated that the actuator 336 can bedisposed in other configurations or on other surfaces of the load cell312, e.g. a top surface of the seat 318, or the like.

In an embodiment, the actuator 336 can include a push button configuredto be actuated by the ring connector 320 when the ring connector 320engages the load cell 312. However, it will be appreciated that theactuator 336 can include various types of actuators employing variousmodalities without departing from the spirit of the invention. Exemplaryactuators can include pressure transducers, optical transducers,magnetic switches, electro-magnetic actuators, solenoids,radio-frequency tags, mechanical switches, combinations thereof, or thelike. In an embodiment, the load cell 312 can include two or moreactuators 336.

FIGS. 3C-3D show a rear side view of the load cell 312 with the ringconnector 320 engaged therewith. FIG. 3C shows the load cell 312 in theunlocked configuration. FIG. 3D shows the load cell 312 in the lockedconfiguration. The load cell 312 can include a biasing member 328configured to bias the locking arms 332 towards a locked configuration(FIG. 3D), i.e. in a radially inward configuration relative to thecentral transverse axis (x). In the unlocked configuration, the lockingarms 332 can be displaced in a radially outward configuration relativeto the central transverse axis (x) and can be held in the unlockedconfiguration by a ratchet, pawl, catch or similar suitable mechanism.Actuating the actuator 336 can release the locking arms 332 and allowthe biasing member 328 to transition the locking arms 332 from theunlocked configuration (FIG. 3C) to the locked configuration (FIG. 3D).

In an embodiment, the load cell 312 can further include a release arm334, or similar actuator, configured to transition the locking arms 332from the locked configuration (FIG. 3D) to the unlocked configuration(FIG. 3C). In an embodiment, the load cell 312 can include a leftrelease arm 334A and a right release arm 334B, disposed opposite theleft release arm 334A across a central vertical axis (z). It will beappreciated, however, that other combinations and orientations ofrelease arm(s) 334 are also contemplated to fall within the scope of thepresent invention. The release arms 334A, 334B can be slidably engagedwith the load cell 312 along a lateral axis, extending perpendicular tothe vertical axis. In the unlocked configuration (FIG. 3C), the releasearms 334A, 334B can be disposed in a radially inward configurationrelative to the central vertical axis (z). In the locked configuration(FIG. 3D), the release arms 334A, 334B can be disposed in a radiallyoutward configuration relative to the central vertical axis (z).

In an embodiment, as the biasing member 328 transitions the locking arms332 from the unlocked configuration (FIG. 3C) to the lockedconfiguration, (FIG. 3D), the locking arms 332 can be configured totransition the release arms 334 from the laterally inward position (FIG.3C) to the laterally outward position (FIG. 3D). In an embodiment, therelease arms 334 can be configured such that transitioning the releasearms 334 from the laterally outward position (FIG. 3D) to the laterallyinward position (FIG. 3C) can transition the locking arms 332 from thelocked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

In an embodiment, the load cell 312 can include an electrical contact116 disposed on a front surface thereof. The ring connector 320 caninclude an electrical contact 326 disposed on a rear surface andconfigured to align with the load cell electrical contact 116. In thelocked configuration, the ring connector electrical contact 326 engagesthe load cell electrical contact 116 to communicatively couple with ringconnector 320 with the console 110, as described herein. Advantageously,the ring connector electrical contact 326 engages the load cellelectrical contact 116 along a transverse axis that extendsperpendicular to the surfaces that the electrical contacts 116, 326 aredisposed on. This mitigates wear on the electrical contact surfaces andproviding a reliable communicative coupling therebetween and extends theusable life of the system 100.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, in an embodiment the load cell 412 and the ringconnector 420 can include an engagement structure having a clip latchlocking mechanism 414 configured to releasably secure the ring connector420 with the load cell 412. In an embodiment, the ring connector 420 candefine a substantially cuboid shape including a substantiallyrectangular front surface, a rectangular rear surface and one or moreside surfaces extending therebetween. It will be appreciated, however,that the ring connector 420 can define various polygonal shapes withoutlimitation.

The ring connector 420 can include a peg 422 extending from a surfacethereof, e.g. a front surface, and configured to secure a fluidcollection system 150 thereto. As shown in FIG. 4C, the peg 422 cancouple the fluid collection system 150 to the ring connector 420 at ahigher vertical position (e.g. vertical position D3), relative to thering loop 122 that extend from a lower surface of a ring connector 120(e.g. vertical position D1). The difference between the ring loop 122vertical position (D1) and the peg 422 vertical position (D3) can be adistance D2. Advantageously, this raises the fluid collection system 150relative to the console 110 by a distance (D2) mitigating contact with afloor surface and providing a shorter, more compact overall profile tothe system 100. As will be appreciated, the peg 422 can include a loop,hook, or similar structure configured to couple the fluid collectionsystem to the ring connector 420. In an embodiment, the peg 422 can bedisposed proximate a bottom surface of the ring connector 420, proximatea top surface of the ring connector 420, or disposed at any verticalposition along the front surface of the ring connector 420. In anembodiment, the peg 422 can be disposed at any vertical position along aside surface of the ring connector 420. In an embodiment, the peg 422can be disposed on a top surface of the ring connector 420. In anembodiment the peg 422 can extend from the ring connector 420horizontally, vertically, or at an angle therebetween.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, in an embodiment, the load cell 412 can includea cradle 418 configured to engage a surface of the ring connector 420.For example, the cradle 418 can be configured to receive a portion of arear surface, a side surface, or a bottom surface of the ring connector420, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the cradle 418 canincludes a seat 476 extending horizontally from the front surface of theload cell 412. The seat 476 can be configured to engage a bottom surfaceof the ring connector 420, when the ring connector 420 is engaged withthe load cell 412. Advantageously, the seat 476 can be configured tosupport the weight of the ring connector 420, and optionally the fluidcollection system 150 coupled thereto, and transfer any downward forcefrom the ring connector 320 to the load cell 312. In an embodiment, thecradle 418 can include one or more guide rails 430 extending along anedge of the cradle 418 and configured to align the ring connector 420with the cradle 418. Advantageously, the cradle 418 and guide rail 430provides an intuitive system to align the ring connector 420 with theload cell 412.

In an embodiment, the clip latch locking mechanism 414 can include oneor more spring clips 432 disposed on the ring connector 420. The springclip 432 can be configured to engage the cradle 418 to releasably securethe ring connector 420 to the load cell 412. The spring clip 432 can beslidably engaged with the ring connector 420 between a locked position(FIG. 4B) and an unlocked position (FIG. 4D). The spring clip 432 caninclude a biasing member 434, e.g. a compression spring, configured tobias the spring clip 432 towards the locked position. The spring clip432 can further include an actuator 436 configured to transition thespring clip 432 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

In an embodiment, the cradle 418 can include a recess 438 configured toreceive the spring clip 432 and releasably secure the ring connector 420to the cradle 418. One of the spring clip 432 or the recess 438 caninclude a chamfered edge to facilitate engagement of the spring clip 432with the cradle recess 438. In an embodiment, the ring connector 420 caninclude a first spring clip 432 disposed proximate a top surface of thering connector 420 and configured to engage a recess 438 disposed on anunderside of a top surface of the cradle 418. However, it will beappreciated that the clip latch locking mechanism 414 can include one ormore spring clips 432 disposed proximate a top surface, bottom surface,side surface, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the ring connector 420 can include a protrusion 440extending from a surface of the ring connector 420 and configured toengage a recess 442, aperture, detent, or similar structure disposed inthe cradle 418. The protrusion 440 and recess 442 can be configured tofurther secure the ring connector 420 with the load cell 412. As shown,the protrusion 440 extends from a bottom surface of the ring connector420 and is configured to engage a recess 442 disposed in the seat 476 ofthe cradle 418. The protrusion 440 and recess 442 can be disposedopposite a spring clip 432. However, it will be appreciated that one ormore protrusions 440 and recesses 442 can be disposed proximate a topsurface, bottom surface, side surface of the ring connector 420 orcombinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the load cell 412 can include an electrical contact116 disposed on a front surface thereof. The ring connector 420 caninclude an electrical contact 426 disposed on a rear surface andconfigured to align with the load cell electrical contact 116. In thelocked configuration, the ring connector electrical contact 426 engagesthe load cell electrical contact 116 to communicatively couple with ringconnector 420 with the console 110, as described herein. Advantageously,the ring connector electrical contact 426 engages the load cellelectrical contact 116 along a transverse axis that extendsperpendicular to the surfaces that the electrical contacts 116, 426 aredisposed on. This mitigates wear on the electrical contact surfaces andprovides a reliable communicative coupling therebetween, extending theusable life of the system 100.

In an exemplary method of use a user can actuate the actuator 436 toovercome the force of the biasing member 434 and transition the springclip 432 from the locked position to the unlocked position. In anembodiment, the ring connector 420 can engage the load cell 412 along atransverse axis until a surface of the ring connector 420 engages thecradle 418 disposed on the load cell 412. In an embodiment, a protrusion440 extending from a lower surface engages a first recess 442 disposedin a seat 476 of the cradle 418 to inhibit movement between a lowersurface of the ring connector 420 and the seat 476. A user can thenrelease the actuator 436 to allow the biasing member 434 to transitionthe spring clip 432 from the unlocked position to the locked positionwhere the spring clip 422 engages a second recess 438 disposed in thecradle 418 opposite the first recess 442. A user can then couple a fluidcollection system 150 with a peg 422, or similar structure, extendingfrom a surface of the ring connector 420, e.g. a front surface.Optionally, a user can couple the fluid collection system 150 with thepeg 422 prior to engaging the ring connector 420 with the load cell 412.

While some particular embodiments have been disclosed herein, and whilethe particular embodiments have been disclosed in some detail, it is notthe intention for the particular embodiments to limit the scope of theconcepts provided herein. Additional adaptations and/or modificationscan appear to those of ordinary skill in the art, and, in broaderaspects, these adaptations and/or modifications are encompassed as well.Accordingly, departures may be made from the particular embodimentsdisclosed herein without departing from the scope of the conceptsprovided herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An automatic fluid flow measuring system,comprising: a ring connector including a peg extending from a frontsurface and configured to be coupled to a fluid collection system, thering connector including a first electrical contact disposed on a firstsurface; and a load cell including a cradle configured to engage aportion of the ring connector and including a second electrical contactdisposed on a second surface, the first electrical contact engaging thesecond electrical contact along an axis extending perpendicular to boththe first surface and the second surface.
 2. The automatic fluid flowmeasuring system according to claim 1, wherein the ring connectorincludes a spring clip slidable between a locked position and anunlocked position, the spring clip engaging the cradle to releasablysecure the ring connector to the load cell.
 3. The automatic fluid flowmeasuring system according to claim 2, wherein the ring connectorincludes a biasing member configured to bias the spring clip towards thelocked position.
 4. The automatic fluid flow measuring system accordingto claim 2, wherein the ring connector includes an actuator configuredto transition the spring clip from the locked position to the unlockedposition.
 5. The automatic fluid flow measuring system according toclaim 1, wherein the cradle includes a seat extending from the secondsurface of the load cell and configured to support a bottom surface ofthe ring connector to transfer a downward force from the ring connectorto the load cell.
 6. The automatic fluid flow measuring system accordingto claim 1, wherein the cradle includes one or more guide railsconfigured to align a surface of the ring connector with the cradle. 7.The automatic fluid flow measuring system according to claim 1, whereinthe ring connector includes a protrusion configured to engage a recessdisposed in a surface of the cradle.